My friend Sara and I got out early this morning to beat the wind and have some fun on Big Lagoon & Maple Creek. I was pleasantly surprised that we didn’t face a big holiday crowd; our timing gave us Maple Creek all to ourselves!

I love to paddle and here’s why. Not only is it a great upper body workout, it is also peaceful gliding along the surface of the water. The wildlife watching is another huge perk. We followed a Kingfisher up the creek, watched two great blue herons stalk prey and take flight, and observed a family of four river otters. When I got out of the water another local kayaker said, “wow, look at that smile on your face.” Bliss. Pure bliss.

The photo ops are also pretty fun. I got a couple of really great images. Once again I wished I had a telephoto lens with me. I just may have to get serious about it. The family of four otters were having a great time in the water. My cell phone pic just doesn’t capture it but it’s posted here as documentation of the sighting. Zoom in to see them and the one otter who was watching us. Enjoy my pics! #iluvtokayak #biglagoon #humboldt #humboldtcounty #kayaking

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